1.
succession; succeeding; taking over
The act of following someone in a role, position, or lineage. Also used as a modifier to mean 'successor' or 'next-generation.'
後継者を育てる。
To train a successor.
社長の後継を誰にするか議論が続いている。
Discussions continue about who will succeed the company president.
伝統工芸の後継者不足が深刻な問題になっている。
The shortage of successors in traditional crafts has become a serious problem.
Composed of 後 (after/behind) + 継 (succeed/inherit). Refers to the continuation of a role, position, or tradition through a new person or entity.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 後継者: successor (person)
- 後継者不足: shortage of successors
- 後継機: successor model (of a product/aircraft)
- 後継問題: succession issue
- 後継を育てる: to train a successor
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 後任: successor (to a specific position) — focuses on the person filling a vacated role
- 跡継ぎ: heir, successor — often used for family businesses or hereditary roles
- 継承: succession, inheritance — more formal; emphasizes the act of inheriting traditions, rights, or property
USAGE:
後継者不足 (successor shortage) is a major social issue in Japan, affecting traditional crafts, family farms, and small businesses as younger generations move to cities.